Errands can waste a lot of time, so whenever possible, group your errands. One day last week I unexpectedly needed bananas and milk. Since I had to go out, I decided I would swing by the bank to make a deposit since it was just down the street. And while I was out, I decided to stop by the vet’s office and pick up my dog’s heartworm and flea medicines. And since the vet was close to the eye doctor, it was a good opportunity to have my glasses adjusted. In the end, four errands took me less than an hour. If I had done them individually, it would have taken a lot more time.
Save time by keeping a running list of errands so when you’re going out, you can group them together and save some of your precious time and your expensive gasoline!
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A Few Tips For Planning Errands
If you only have one place to go, wait as long as you can in case another errand comes up in the same neighborhood. I needed ink for my printer but I waited until my haircut appointment because the office supply store was near the hair salon.
Plan your route. Obviously if you’re getting perishables, like food, you should probably get those last, if you can. So plan your route accordingly.
Put your list on a post-it note or index card and carry it with you. List where you’re going and what you’re getting and keep it in your purse or pocket. It’s amazing how easy it is to forget something or someplace.
Even when you’re going on a fun shopping trip, start with a plan. When my daughter and I shop, we make a list of every place each of us wants to go, what we need there, and then we plan our route. I like to start with the place that’s furthest away and work my way home. Just in case you’re thinking that having a plan takes the fun out of it, that couldn’t be more wrong. The plan is just to make sure we get what we need. It doesn’t mean we can’t add and subtract because we surely do!
Amen on the forgetfulness! I HAVE to have a list of places and things needed or I’ll get home and be irritated that I forgot something.
I’ve done it too. When I realize my mistake, I always think: “How could I have possibly forgotten that?” You’re sure you won’t when you head out. Thank goodness for lists!